Policies and Procedures

In the event of an evacuation, staff and ushers will guide patrons who cannot navigate stairs to a designated Emergency Evacuation Assistance area. These areas are placed throughout the facility to ensure the safety of all patrons who do not feel they can safely follow the prescribed egress route.

Kauffman Center staff will communicate with first responders about how many patrons are at each area of rescue. First responders will evacuate these areas immediately upon arrival. Patrons who have any questions about emergency procedures should see a Patron Services staff member for more detailed information.

The Kauffman Center prohibits employees and the public with concealed carry permits from entering the building with weapons. All Kauffman Center visitors are subject to search. Anyone found in violation will be asked to secure the weapon inside their vehicle or leave the property immediately.

This emergency evacuation video was created by the Kauffman Center Patron Services team and volunteers.

Performances at the Kauffman Center are rarely canceled for inclement weather. Please remember in the case of snow or ice, you can count on all Kauffman Center sidewalks, driveways, and entry points to be clean and accessible. In case of a weather emergency, shelter in place inside the performance hall, not in the lobby, and please follow all instructions as announced from the stage.

It is possible that a tour, school program or community event might be canceled due to bad weather. In the unlikely event of a cancelation, the Kauffman Center will post a voicemail recording on its main box office line: 816.994.7222.

The Kauffman Center operates as a non-profit organization and derives essential income from a variety of sources. Photography or videography requests related to reserving space and/or time for special events inside the building shall be considered on an individual basis. Kauffman Center strives to manage resources responsibly  and makes every effort to accommodate requests when possible. Please refer to the categories below for photography policies and fees. 

Personal Photography (senior photos, prom, family, or wedding portraits, etc.)

Exterior
The Kauffman Center allows personal photography to be taken on the grounds of the building. For personal, exterior shoots, we ask that you inquire about availability in advance so as not to conflict with scheduled Kauffman Center events. To request a time for your personal, exterior photography, please complete the form linked below.

Interior
Due to our extensive performance and event calendar, Kauffman Center has limited availability for scheduling photography or shoots inside the building. Interior shoots require reservation of appropriate spaces and on-site staffing through the duration of your shoot, and therefore, are subject to a location fee. For more information please complete the form linked below. 

Commercial Photography and Filming (print or electronic media, TV, film, etc.)

Exterior and interior commercial photography and filming for commercial purposes may be arranged with our sales staff based on availability and content approval. These shoots require reservation of appropriate spaces and on-site staffing through their duration, and therefore, are subject to a location fee. For more information please complete the form linked below.

To inquire about pricing or availability, get started now or e-mail the events team at .

Photography Request Form

Please note: All photography requests must be submitted at least two weeks prior to proposed photography dates. Submitting a request does not guarantee availability or confirm the shoot. Photography requests will be subject to approval, applicable fees, and restrictions.

The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts hosts almost 500,000 visitors annually who experience over 350 extraordinary, world-class performing arts experiences.  To help ensure such experiences for each visitor are enjoyed, the Center has created policies and procedures to promote a secure, welcoming environment for each guest.

The evolution of the Kauffman Center’s security screening policy, in collaboration with our presenting partners, demonstrates an ongoing effort to reduce concerns about bulky or unsafe items which hinder the security, and comfort of all patrons.  Policies and procedures at the Kauffman Center continue to evolve as technology and resources emerge which fit the environmental and security needs of all patrons.

All persons and items entering the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts are subject to search. Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts management reserves the right to refuse any item deemed a potential safety or security risk or with the potential to be a distraction to the event being held.

Screenings will be performed by trained professional contracted security staff, and may include, but are not limited to:

• Visual screening
• Bag, case, coat, and hat screenings
• Hand-held magnetometers
• Walk-through magnetometers and/or threat detection systems

Certain types of bags and/or cases are prohibited, including but not limited to:

• Backpacks
• Luggage
• Computer Bags
• Camera Bags/Cases
• Instrument Cases
• Briefcases
• Large Totes and Duffel Bags

All items entering the Kauffman Center will be screened at the point of entry.  Items prohibited in the Kauffman Center include, but are not limited to:

• Firearms of any size or type*
• Other weapons and knives of any size or type
• Pepper spray, mace, or other chemicals
• Alcohol, illegal substances, or drug paraphernalia
• Professional-grade audio, photo, or video recording equipment
• Cans, bottles, or outside food and beverages

*Licensed law enforcement officers, please contact Patron Services with appropriate identification upon arrival if carrying a firearm.

Patrons with prohibited bags, cases, or other items have two options:

1. The item may be returned to a vehicle prior to admittance.
2. Bags or cases may be left at the Kauffman Center’s Coat Check located on the Plaza Lobby Level. (These items will be screened prior to entering the facility.)

The following exceptions will be made after a proper inspection for:

1. Diaper bags
2. Oversized medically necessary items
3. Equipment use of approved media outlets accompanied and approved by Kauffman Center staff

Backpack purses must be worn on one shoulder. If the purse is worn as a backpack, the patron will be asked to adhere to this policy or check the bag at Coat Check.

Unattended items left anywhere in the facility will be inspected and taken to the Security Office.

Please note:

Our security protocol is a perpetual, sustained, and ever-expanding effort.  The Kauffman Center continues to reevaluate safety and security processes and new applications may be integrated into our operations to better provide service to our patrons and guests.

For questions or to connect with a Kauffman Center staff representative, please contact:

E-mail:
Phone: (816) 994-7222